(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Friday, Dec. 6 Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade addressed recent allegations related to an alleged hate crime hoax.

During the 2023 Colorado Springs Mayoral Runoff Election one of Mobolade’s campaign signs was vandalized with a racial slur and a cross burned in front of it. On Nov. 12 three suspects were indicted on charges related to the alleged hoax. All three suspects are associated with a minority-owned independent broadcasting and multi-media organization.

Since the indictment, rumors have alleged that Mayor Mobolade had been involved in the hoax. According to Mayor Mobolade in a Facebook live video on Friday, these rumors led to bogus reports including a tabloid in Nigeria saying he had been arrested by the FBI.

Mayor Mobolade said he had not spoken about the rumors as the investigation is still active and ongoing, and he had consulted legal counsel so he did not unintentionally jeopardize the prosecution.

Having since received the guidance he needed from both his personal attorney and the prosecuting attorney, Mayor Mobolade felt he could address the rumors.

“I had no knowledge, warning, or involvement in this crime. I did not lie to the FBI. I voluntarily provided all requested communication without a subpoena,” said Mayor Mobolade in the video.

Mayor Mobolade said he has fully and truthfully cooperated throughout the investigation and claimed a document from the Department of Justice shows that he was identified as a victim or potential victim during the investigation of the case.

“It is important to me that the judicial process is followed for a successful prosecution that brings justice to our community,” said Mayor Mobolade.

Mayor Mobolade said he only knew one of the alleged suspects as a local media personality.